Matthew Bartels is more than a “funny kid,” he is a kid who wants to be a comedian. The 14-year-old resident of Slidell, who recently began writing and performing his own comedy routines, will have his chance in the spotlight, opening for several productions of the Slidell Little Theatre summer YATS productions.

Bartels had decided to try his act out on an audience larger than family and friends by entering a video of his performance for SLT’s Got Talent. Bartels’ style of humor is situational-based and self-deprecating. His act was voted on by thousands of people through Facebook and was selected as one of the finalists who performed live on the SLT stage. While Bartels didn’t ultimately win the local talent competition, the response to his act was enough to encourage him to keep at his craft.

Bartels recently served as the master of ceremonies for Slidell’s KidsFest.

When he isn’t writing his next routine, Bartels enjoys participating in Boyet Junior High School’s Talented Theater program, woodworking, and of course, making people laugh.

Allen Little, Vice President of Productions and YATS director, seized the opportunity to have Bartels perform during selected YATS productions.

“The young man is very talented and quite funny,” Allen said. “We’re thrilled to be able to showcase his comedic talents on our stage, and I’m sure the audiences will be equally thrilled.”

Bartels will have a limited engagement opening for the “Don’t Stop Believin’” on July 12, 7 p.m.; “Magic in Me”, July 13, 7 p.m.; “High School Musical, Jr.”, July 18, 7 p.m.; and “Bye Bye Birdie”, July 19, 7 p.m.

Tickets for the Junior Shows (“Magic In Me” and “Don’t Stop
Believing”) are $8. Tickets for the Senior Shows (“High School Musical Jr.”
and “Bye Bye Birdie”) are $10 each. Tickets are
sold at the door if seats are available.